Current understanding and use of environmental enrichment in China (2014)

Qi, K., De-mi, S., Chuan, Q.

Abstract

In practice, consideration is given to providing most of the species used in research,testing and education withsome level of environmental enrichment. However, although the current level of awareness and understanding about the benefits of environmental enrichment appears similar across different types ofresearch establishments in China (e.g. private pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, government institutions), the actual ability for animal carers to provide appropriate enrichment is often limited by financial constraints or access to relevant information and resources. In addition, whilst more and more scientists are acknowledging the importance of providing environmental enrichment and will direct the people caring for their animals to prepare appropriate enrichment items, there are many other scientists for whom environmental enrichment is still considered an "optional extra".